San Lorenzo Loop

The San Lorenzo loop trail is an easy, popular path that leaves from the San Lorenzo County Park and traces the Salinas River, reaching a sandy river beach before circling back to the park.

Offering views of rolling hills to the west, and the rugged range of Pinnacles National Park to the north, this hard packed dirt path is great for hikers, runner and bicyclists looking to get out and stretch their legs. With a mostly flat course, the path tends to be great for most ability levels.

Following a course mostly through the overgrown brush of the river floodplain, the highlights of this path are definitely its access points to the Salinas River. One sandy spur trail leads to an area of the river, though the appeal here varies, depending on if the water levels are high enough to reach it. However at the furthest point of the hike, a sandy river beach sits alongside the trail, where hikers can dip their feet or wade into the water.

While there are no amenities or anything at all along the hike itself, the trail begins and ends beside the parking area of San Lorenzo Park, which offers all amenities such as bathrooms, water, covered picnic benches, a historical area to explore, and a campground.

The county park is free to visit, though park regulations such as open hours which vary by season apply.

All park details, including hours of operation, can be found at CountyOfMonterey.gov